Inspectors from NSW Fisheries and NSW Environmental Pollution Agency acting on community concerns were on the ground yesterday (Tuesday 8 July) at Lake Cargelligo and Lake Curlew to investigate mass deaths of native fish.It follows a large fish kills at both inland lakes over the past couple of weeks.Aquatic ecologist Dr Adam Kerezsy says the native bony herring fish are dead in big numbers, probably thousands.‘’There are large numbers near the banks and few of us including fish biologists have put our heads together," Dr Kerezsy said."We’re pretty sure it’s a combination of a cold snap and the Lake got drawn down to fifty per cent last year and summer was hot and in May it was super-hot but we are leaving some of our suspicions open.’’Dr Kerezsy lives near Lake Cargelligo and hopes investigators could uncover something new.‘’The response from Fisheries and the EPA has been rapid so we can’t fault them,’’ he said.‘’The bony herring has lived on this continent for centuries and this winter has been colder so it could be something much different.’’ Dead bony herring at Lake Cargelligo. [IMAGE: Adam Kerezsy]Dr Kerezsy started seeing small numbers of dead fish about two weeks ago and alerted agencies.‘’Birds are doing well out of it at the moment but I imagine summer could be different and its only affecting fish between 10 to 20cm."The Department of Primary Industries said together with Water NSW investigations would continue.State MP for Barwon in Lake Cargelligo said he was working with community and authorities to determine the cause but it is possible that there is little that could have been done to prevent the fish deaths.

A breakthrough in emissions research has delivered welcome news to Australia’s beef feedlot sector, with new data showing that methane emissions from grain-fed cattle are significantly lower than previously reported.Until recently, the National Greenhouse Accounts relied on a 1979 equation by Moe and Tyrrell which is based on dairy cattle in the United States, to estimate methane emissions in Australian feedlots.The latest data indicates that emissions from cattle may have been over-stated by more than fifty per cent.However, differences in diet, breed, and production systems between American dairy cattle and Australian grain-fed beef cattle meant the numbers were never truly representative.Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA) Managing Director Michael Crowley said the development of a new, Australian-specific methodology has provided the industry with a far more accurate understanding of its environmental impact.“The development of an Australian-specific methodology for calculating Australian grain-fed cattle emissions is a helpful step forward for the feedlot industry,” Mr Crowley said.“As technology has improved over time, measurements have become more accurate and now we have proven through thorough research that grain-fed cattle have lower emissions than previously thought.”The new equation developed by the University of New England (UNE) in collaboration with MLA and the Australian Lot Feeders’ Association (ALFA) shows that methane emissions from feedlot cattle were overestimated by up to 56 per cent under the previous system.Decades of misinformed reporting now correctedJack Johnston from MLA explained to the Western Plains App just how substantial this change is.“It’s significant.""The new equation shows emissions are 56 per cent lower than previously reported over the last five years,” he said.“The old equation was based on 1970s data from American dairy cattle."That’s hardly a match for today’s grain-fed beef cattle in Australian feedlots.”UNE Professor of Livestock Production, Frances Cowley, said their research focused on evaluating methane emissions from cattle fed tempered barley-based diets which is standard in Australia but vastly different from the hay and silage diets fed to dairy cattle in the original study.Meat & Livestock Australia Managing Director Michael Crowley is one of many industry professionals excited by new methane findings.“The research involved analysis of previous methane studies on livestock as well as new measurements at UNE’s facilities,” she said.“The data supported the theory that Australian cattle on typical feedlot diets produce significantly fewer emissions than the outdated Moe and Tyrrell equation suggested.”Importantly, the federal government has now officially adopted the new methodology and backdated emission reports, some up to 20 years old, using the updated formula.A New Baseline for Better SustainabilityPresident of ALFA, Grant Garey, said this scientific advancement marks a milestone for the feedlot sector’s long-standing efforts to reduce emissions.“ALFA and MLA have partnered in researching and developing tools to address the climate challenge for over 20 years,” he said.“This recent advancement gives us the tools to better target methane reduction efforts within the feedlot industry."With an accurate baseline now established, the industry can focus more effectively on sustainability goals.“The research provides lot feeders with accurate information to meet the growing demand for climate-related evidence and reporting.”Mr Johnston agreed, noting the revised measurements do not mean the job is done, the industry is just better informed.“It’s not a case of saying ‘we’re off the hook’.""It’s more about having clarity on where we actually stand, so we can move forward and focus our efforts more effectively,” he said.Grain-fed cattle typically emit less methane than grass-fed cattle, largely because their diet and environment can be tightly controlled.However, Mr Johnston stressed that both systems are interconnected and essential.“You can’t have grain-fed cattle without grass-fed systems. Cattle aren’t born in feedlots,” he said.

A 20-year-old woman has become the third person arrest over an alleged break and enter in Mendooran in December 2024. Police say detectives with Strike Force Compartment arrested her on Dubbo's Boothenba Road at around 11:10am on Monday 7 July. She was taken to Dubbo Police Station, where she was charged with an aggravated break, enter and steal offence at a rural property. She was granted conditional bail to appear at Mudgee Local Court on Wednesday 30 July 2025. Police say 13 firearms were stolen from the property during the alleged break-in on the Castlereagh Highway. Two men, a 29 and 31-year-old, were also arrested in June. Police arrested the 29-year-old in Merrygoen on Friday 13 July, and the other man in Dubbo's North street. Strike Force Compartment was established in December 2024 in investigate break and entre offences in the Orana Mid-Western area.

Construction is set to begin later this year for Bourke's Early Years Transition Centre after the NSW government announced it has awarded a construction contractor. Shape Australia is responsible for the build, which is expected to be ready for opening by early 2027. A government spokesperson said the centre will be on the same site as Bourke Primary School to make drop off and pick up easier for families. “Having the Early Years Transition Centre on site will improve transition to school for our Kindergarten children, improve learning outcomes and offer convenience for parents," Bourke Public School Executive Principal Margaret Gordon-Poole said.  “The start of construction for the new Early Years Transition Centre is an exciting step forward for the entire Bourke community." The new centre will cater for 80 children a week while the government says more details on the design will be shared as the project progresses.The government has released "indicative" artist impressions of the future early learning facilities. IMAGE: NSW government The contractor is also expected to deliver three preschools school in Menindee, Parkes and Broken Hill.The news has been welcomed by Bourke and District Children's Services General Manager Prue Ritchie, whose service runs a not-for-profit early learning centre. "What makes the biggest difference for children - and the evidence demonstrates that it's 600 hours per year for two years before school," said Bourke and District Children's Services General Manager Prue Ritchie, who's service runs a non-for-profit preschool. "That really allows early childhood services to commence early childhood education, but also to support families about the importance of education and preparation for school." A spokesperson for the Department of Education and Early Learning could not confirm how much funding will go into the build, which is now in the planning process. The cost will depend on each facility's size and location.

Firefighters in Walgett Shire say they fear lives could be at risk with a proposed swap-out of fire trucks meaning fewer firefighters for the district.Walgett is just one town where Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) is proposing to replace four-person 'pumpers' with tankers requiring only two operators.Others in the western plains area are set to follow. Agency officials say the move will help tackle staff shortages and save costs, although local firefighters told the Western Plains App it would likely lead to a dip in service quality. "Normally when you have a road crash, you have someone on fire protection, so someone's standing there ready with the hose just in case," one crew member said. "Then you have two people if you have to cut people out and use the jaws of life (rescue tool), and then a third person as a runner. "I don't really understand how they're going to do that if there's only two of us." Firefighters said that their operating procedure requires a four-person crew to enter a burning house and physically remove an occupant - two to go in and two as a safety net in case something goes wrong.Walgett's Fire and Rescue station. IMAGE: River McCrossen The pressure of the water flowing out the hose affects how effective the stream is at putting out a fire, and tankers generally apply have pressure than pumpers.The firefighters said the loss of the Walgett pumper would draw resources away from surrounding stations if the tankers can't handle an incident in town. Walgett, Bingara, Dungog are three initial stations which would lose their Class 2 pumpers, followed by a further seven areas including Warren. The pumpers are generally used as rescue vehicles able to spray 3000 litres a minute, while the the Class 1 tankers that would replace them can pump half that amount but carry more water. "The tanker's kind of like the ugly sister. It will do the job, but when the pressure's on, it may fail," one firefighter said. "The pumper allows us to provide enough water pressure to combat any structure fire within the Walgett township. Our tanker's capability is slightly lower. "They're similar, but different enough to be a significant point of difference between the two appliances."A Class 1 Fire and Rescue tanker. IMAGE: FRNSWThe Western Plains App understands that local branch members will discuss the proposal with RFNSW Cheif Superintendent David Felton during a Walgett visit on 8 July. Stations were selected for the tanker project based on factors including low call-out rates and low recruitment, with Peak Hill being one of the first stations to take up the change in 2019.A firefighter at that station said the crew "reluctantly" accepted their tanker to keep the station running, although they also said the service quality declined. "There's a lot of things that you can't really do with two people that you should be able to do to complete our job, I'd say, efficiently," the Peak Hill firefighter said. An FRNSW spokesperson said they are "improving the way resources are managed and enhancing the emergency response in regional communities by introducing more efficient trucks into service." “These trucks carry more water and handle rough terrain better than currently used urban fire trucks," the spokesperson said. “FRNSW is consulting with the Fire Brigade Employees Union (FBEU), local government, and other emergency service agencies ahead of these trucks entering service.” The replacing tanker is expected to arrive in Walgett within a couple of months and be able to respond over rough terrain to bushfires, structure fires and flood emergencies. The FBEU's Country Sub-Branch representative Tim Anderson called the project "a budget cutting exercise." "Potentially halving the number of firefighters that are attending an incident will only make it more dangerous for those firefighters," Mr Anderson said. "Rather than withdrawing from these communities, we should be investing."

The Building Commission NSW has confirmed it is heading to the Western Plains.It is part of plans to visit regional locations across the state to ensure local construction sectors are working to the highest possible level.A spokesman for NSW Building Minister Anaulack Chanthivong told the Western Plains App ‘’ We are heading your way and will make an announcement this month.’’It follows a recent blitz by NSW Building Commissioner James Sherrard and his inspectors throughout the Central West, handing out hefty fines.“The NSW Government is committed to lifting standards in the residential construction industry across the entire state and that includes our regions," a spokesperson said.“The Central West inspection blitz is part of an ongoing program to ensure that homeowners, no matter where they live, can have confidence in the quality of their homes.”Building Commission representatives visited the Central West in early June to conduct inspections on new residential properties as part of the agency’s continued commitment to monitor building work in regional NSW. A team of inspectors visited 62 sites across Dubbo, Orange, Bathurst and Blayney. Fifteen inspectors split their time between general building work inspections, specialist trades like plumbing, electrical, gas and air conditioning, as well as Home Building Compensation Fund (HBCF) checks.NSW Building Commissioner James Sherrard said the work of his inspectors had been effective.NSW Building Commissioner James Sherrard. “On this trip to the Central West, 30 Building Commission NSW staff travelled 822 kilometres to conduct compliance inspections, engage with local councils, communities and stakeholders.“While inspections were just a small part of what our team did in the Central West, it was still very important to check in on the local industry and ensure the building work is of good quality." As a result of the compliance campaign Building Commission NSW has drafted 15 Rectification Orders for a range of defects detected during the four-day blitz. Before these orders are finalised and made public, Building Commission NSW will consider written representations from the developer or principal contractor, as required by legislation. The visit also saw Building Commission NSW issue 18 penalty infringement notices (PINs) valued at $13,700 for issues related to builder and certifier’s signage, unlicenced work and supervision of trades. In addition to the PINs, Building Commission NSW inspectors issued 57 written direction notices (WDNs) for specialist electrical work.“After almost 150 interactions with tradespeople on sites across Bathurst, Orange, Dubbo and Blayney, we were pleased with the level of compliance we saw," a commission spokesperson said.“But the 57 written direction notices issued for electrical work alone speak to the importance of checking in, as there is still work to be done.“Whether it’s the Central West or the coast, homeowners deserve confidence that their home is safe and sound when they move in." Building Commission NSW also uses its time in regional areas to conduct council meetings and community “drop-in” sessions providing residents the opportunity to raise building-related issues and ask questions about the regulatory process. In Orange, Building Commission NSW partnered with the Master Builders Association (MBA) at an evening industry event where 140 attendees shared insights about construction within the region. The regional inspection program has seen inspectors visit the Mid-North Coast, Tweed and Riverina-Murray so far this year, to ensure residential buildings outside the metro postcodes are up to par. As part of this regional push, Building Commission NSW has visited 223 residential building sites, expects to issue or has issued 58 orders for building defects, and issued 72 PINs. Building Commission NSW also plans to visit other regional locations across the state to ensure local construction sectors are working to the highest possible level.

The Walgett Community Working Party (WCWP) has gone it alone after the Aboriginal-controlled body split with the Murdi Paaki Regional Assembly (MPRA). The Assembly is a representative body that advocates to the NSW government on behalf of its member groups, but WCWP chair Garry Trindall said they were better off with a direct line to Macquarie Street. Government agency Aboriginal Affairs NSW (AANSW) certified the working party as a Local Decision-Making Alliance on 6 June. "We found they weren't representing us," said Working Party Chair Garry Trindall. "The chairpersons forward stuff up to Murdi Paaki, but nothing was being achieved. "After we had the meeting and the resolution was passed, we just sent them an email and said 'that's it. We're finished.'"AANSW Deputy Secretary and WCWP Chairperson Garry Trindall hold a certificate recognising the body an alliance under the Local Decision-Making framework. IMAGE: suppliedMr Trindall said a working party meeting of about 30 people in March resolved to pull away from the Assembly. After Walgett's withdrawal, the Assembly represents working parties in 15 far western communities including Lightning Ridge, Coonamble, Cobar, Broken Hill and Menindee. Local Decision-Making alliances and assemblies are regional Aboriginal bodies that can sign accords with the NSW government and have input into how and what services are delivered to their communities. The Murdi Paaki Regional Assembly was established in 2004 and signed the state first Decision-Making Accord in February 2015.  Assembly chair Grace Gordon said the door is still open for future "re-engagement." "While this is not the outcome we had hoped for, MPRA respects the community’s right to pursue its own self-determined pathway. Our Charter of Governance provides for communities to opt out of formal affiliation while still maintaining a voice through future re-engagement," Ms Gordon said. "MPRA supports locally led decision-making but also advocates for a coordinated regional approach to service reform and government engagement." MPRA delegates celebrated the Assembly's 20th birthday in June 2024. Left to right (seated): Michelle Kelly (Menindee CWP delegate), Catherine Cubby (MPSL TSEP staff member), Patricia Bates-Canty (Western NSW Local Health District), Grace Gordon (MPRA Independent Chairperson), Andrew Rose (Aboriginal Affairs NSW), Anthony Knight (Weilmoringle CWP Chairperson), Robin Brown (Weilmoringle CWP Secretary), Carmel King (Menindee CWP Members) and Elaine Ohlsen (Ngiyampaa Elder and Traditional Owner). PHOTO: MPRA"Unfortunately, the NSW Government—specifically Aboriginal Affairs NSW —has undermined this regional model by supporting the formation of a single-community Alliance within the broader Murdi Paaki footprint. "Overlapping alliances within a single region risk duplicating governance structures, blurring lines of accountability, and weakening the power of collective regional advocacy." Ms Gordon said the agency contradicted its own policy for new alliances, updated in April 2025, which says their boundaries cannot intersect with another alliance. She also said no other working party has formally indicated an intention to leave the Assembly. A spokesperson for AANSW said they are committed to "supporting Aboriginal communities to determine their own futures." "Aboriginal communities have continually expressed the need for government to listen to community voices, and AANSW continues to respect this principle," the spokesperson said. "Local Decision Making models are continually evolving which is reflected in the diversity of models already in existence across NSW." The new alliance will cover Walgett, Ginge and Namoi. Ms Gordon said the Assembly will hold a meeting in Walgett this month to "provide community members with the opportunity to determine how they wish to engage going forward." 

The Murrunmala Dhawun Rangers, based at Coonabarabran Local Aboriginal Land Council, have been learning new ways at an Aboriginal Ranger Gathering at Trelawney Station at Somerton, outside Tamworth.Coonabarabran CEO Brandon Nixon says he is hopeful for more funding to put towards expanding their Ranger Program to include a womens and junior ranger team. With a focus on expanding local knowledge and connection, he says they are looking to bring more women on board.''We have a lot of interest from our women to become rangers and we'd hope to have at least four," Mr Nixon said.“We’ve always relied on community involvement and volunteers so to have our Ranger Program up and running for the last 12 months has been pretty special and we’re definitely keen to continue and expand our Ranger Program.’’ “Murrunmala Dhawun means giving life to Country in Gamilaraay language,’’ Brandon says. “It’s very important that we live not only on the land, but we live through the land so having this ranger program that Coonabarabran has never had before, (is so important)." Mr Nixon says over the past 12 months Murrunmala Dhawun Rangers have been busy forging connections with Walaaybaa Rangers, from Tamworth LALC and South Coast LALCs, Bega and Batemans Bay. This included practical steps in how to prepare for and experience and learn from cultural burns, and grow knowledge for burning on Gamilaraay Country.Land management practises, including cultural burning, is part of the Murunmala Dhawun Rangers purpose.Last month as part of the Protecting our Places (PoP) Grant through the NSW Government’s Environment Trust, the Murrunmala Dhawun Rangers met with ecologists on Gamilaraay Country at Burra Bee Dee conducting observations and analysis of plants and animals which will help guide their future land management practises.Late last year Murrunmala Dhawun Rangers also spent time with Walaaybaa Rangers and Warddeken Land Management from Arnhem Land sharing land management practises and building cultural partnerships.Mr Nixon and the Murrunmala Dhawun Rangers caught up with the Warddeken Land Management mob at Trelawney last week.Artwork by Keith Hinton on the Murranmala Dhawun Rangers vehicle. [IMAGE SUPPLIED]“We’re looking at building new connections, learning new technologies, learning what other Ranger groups do in their communities and the best way that we can manage land in traditional cultural ways, but also putting a modern spin on it,’’ Brandon says.‘’If you’re out on Gamilaraay Country, look out for Coonabarabran LALC and the Murrunmala Dhawun Rangers in their custom car wrap undertaken by Surf, Work & Street with artwork by Uncle Keith Hinton. "The Artwork symbolises a meeting place where the Rangers will collaborate with Elders and Community about the we do.’’He said the larger circles represent all the traditional lands of the Gamilaraay People in the Coonabarabran Area.The special blue circle represents Forky Mountain.The artwork symbolises a meeting place where the Rangers will collaborate with Elders and Community about the work they will do.

The NSW Energy and Water Ombudsman says lack of consultation is one of the major reasons for the many complaints she has received over the rush of Renewable Projects in the Western Plains. Janine Young says Since 1 December 2024, when EWON’s jurisdiction commenced, her office has received 40 complaints about renewable energy infrastructure development across NSW. Her office took up the task of finding out more about what is going on.‘’In addition to receiving complaints, we have engaged with regional communities to hear about their experiences with renewable energy infrastructure developers," Ms Young said. "Our community engagement has been focused on the Central West Orana REZ, which is one reason why most of the complaints we have received are also from that area. ‘’The Ombudsman told the Western Plains App the key complaints were:Inadequate consultation, including missing notices, being left out of consultation.Transmission line placement being too close to dwellings and no genuine consideration of alternative line positions.Lack of transparency and information on proposed works, including inadequate maps and designs and unclear indications of capacity and size of developments.Lack of response to concerns raised, including failure to respond at times specified to community members and failure of an information phone line. Concerns about dust and disruption from traffic movements and construction.     ‘’Landholders and community members have complained about lack of consultation in the community, with some landholders hearing about consultation from family or friends, rather than being informed directly," Ms Young said. "We have received feedback during our engagement sessions with community members about cumulative and long-term community impacts not being considered in consultation, such as water run-off and loss of arable land. "Community members do not feel heard and tell us that proponents ignore their local knowledge. "Communities are also concerned about where the community benefit program funds will go, and whether the funded projects will provide real tangible long-term benefits for the whole community. ''The Ombudsman says there are concerns about land value being lost.''During engagements, landholders have told us initial land valuations are too low and they need to “fight” for a fair price, and that the taxation feels like the government is 'giving with one hand and taking back with the other'. "We have heard from the community that negotiations are impacting landholders’ mental health, due to the amount of work involved and the fracturing of neighbour relations. ‘’ She said in the six months from 1 December 2024 to 26 June 2025, she has received 28 complaints for Central West Orana REZ.The Ombudsman has given advice on what to do if landholders or community need someone to talk to.Janine Young is the NSW Energy & Water Ombudsman. [IMAGE: EWON] ‘’Community members should first approach the proponent with the complaint. "If they are not satisfied with the response, they can contact EWON for free and independent advice and assistance. "We can investigate complaints from landholders and community members directly impacted by the transmission development in the area. "We are currently working with NSW Government on further expansion into renewable generation and storage." She says EWON provides a ‘no wrong door’ referral service. If they can’t assist, EWON will refer them to an appropriate organisation who can help. Parkes MP Jamie Chaffey. [IMAGE: facebook]Most complaints are from local landholders, those directly impacted and close neighbours. "We can only investigate complaints from landholders or community members who are directly impacted by a transmission infrastructure project from our members, including their contractors," Ms Young said.Meanwhile , Federal Member for Parkes Jamie Chaffey has weighed in on the rush of Renewable Energy projects in the Western Plains telling a forum about developments at a Resources, Energy and Energy innovation in Dubbo listening to farmers, land holders and community is key.‘’My email inbox is overflowing throughout my electorate and people are telling me the consultation is not being genuine," Mr Chaffey said."It’s not every project but as a former mayor of Gunnedah shire the community there told the proponents in the resources sector a project wasn’t in the right place and it didn’t happen ."The proponents of many of these developments, be it windfarm or solar and battery projects, must listen to those on generations of farms and their children and what it might mean for them on their land.‘’Renewables are part of the answer but the not full answer,’’ Mr Chaffey said.

Seventeen Bogan Shire Aboriginal students recently celebrated completion of a nine-week course which was a first for the western area and a celebration of Aboriginal culture. The Statement of Aboriginal Engagement and Employment skills course saw students learn how to create kangaroo skin heirlooms under the tutelage of Johanna Parker of Orange. “The kangaroo skin marking class was held at Nyngan TAFE and is the first time we have run this course for the western area,” said Ms Johanna Parker. “Each student was given a kangaroo skin of their choosing and then taught traditional aboriginal signs and symbols that they could apply to create their own story. Using a wooden burner like a pen, the students imprinted their designs into the skin. “By supporting and guiding them, we put together their ideas that they wanted to share in their design, whether it was to do with family or personal totem, we worked together to bring their design to life. “For nine-three-hour sessions in the evening, which gave people who worked the opportunity to take part, students came to TAFE at night and relaxed in the company of other aboriginal locals and got to know each other,” said Ms Parker. Cynthia Poirier with her kangaroo hide made during the course. [IMAGE: Nyngan TAFE] “This is a contemporary approach to marking, though the learning of Aboriginal signs and symbols is the traditional part, which the inclusion of kinship and totems that represent family and community. “The students by learning this skill can then go on to produce and sell their own skins for employment or could pathway into the art cultural section or even some other courses encompassing cultural knowledge or Aboriginal language courses." The aim of the course is to not only provide students with a new skill but to provide them with the confidence to create more artwork that they can sell according to Ms Parker. “This was a pilot program so Cobar, Bourke, Brewarrina, Trangie, Warren and other towns in the west are waiting for TAFE to run this course, so hopefully that can happen. “The students were aged from age 18 years to 80, and by turning up each week showed we had engaged them in a culturally safe and inclusive environment, which we are happy about."Nyngan artist Deanna Bamford working on her creation. (IMAGE: Nyngan TAFE). Nyngan artist Deanna Bamford took part in the course and said she really enjoyed the comradery and learning a new form of art. “This was an amazing opportunity to learn burning as a form of art on kangaroo skin under the guidance of our teacher Jo Parker. “To be able to tell our own individual stories through art and meaning while forming new connections and friendships was amazing and such a great course offered by our local TAFE,” she said. 

A man has been charged during an investigation into thefts from rural properties late last year.In December 2024, a rural property on Castlereagh Highway, Mendooran, was subject of a break, enter and steal. Among the items stolen were 13 firearms.In January 2025, officers attached to Rural Crime Prevention Team (RCPT) and Orana Mid-Western Police District established Strike Force Compartment to investigate break and enter offences across the Orana Mid-Western area in December 2024.At about 8.15am on Thursday 12 June 2025, detectives attached to RCPT at Mudgee, with the assistance from Mudgee Detectives, Dubbo Detectives and the Operations Support Group, executed a search warrant at a home on Yalcogran Street, Mendooran.On Friday 13 June 2025, a 29-year-old man was arrested in Merrygoen. He was charged and remains before the courts.Following further inquiries, on Friday (4 July 2025), police executed a search warrant at a property on North Street, Dubbo.During the search, an allegedly stolen Honda motorcycle was located.A 31-year-old man was arrested at the scene and was taken to Dubbo Police Station.He was charged with aggravated enter dwelling in company intent to steal.The man was granted conditional bail to appear before Dubbo Local Court on Wednesday 13 August 2025.

Narromine ratepayers won't see a difference during bill time after new fee limits on council land valuations began this month. The NSW government - specifically the Valuer General - charges local councils to value land, which can influence how much councils charge for rates. Before the start of July, the maximum the Valuer could charge was based on whether councils were classed as metro, regional, rural or coastal.That is all set to change. In May 2025 the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal laid down their final report, which set a single maximum price of $7.93 per valuation for all councils regardless of location. That rate is set for the 2024-25 financial year and will increase to $8.12 in the next after adjusting for inflation. That means country councils will pay a lower limit than before, although Narromine Shire Council's Director of Finance and Corporate Strategy, Barry Bonthuys, said the savings are very small for his council and not enough to consider a significant rate decrease.Narromine Shire Council's Barry Bonthuys. IMAGE: supplied"The Council’s operating expenses is about $16 million per year, while the Council only collects $6.5 million in rates per year," Mr Bonthuys said. "The expenses relating to valuation services by the Valuer General will decrease for Narromine by about $4,000 per year, hardly a difference to the yearly operating expenses of the Council. Considering the Council’s rate base, and only collecting $6.5 million in the rates per year, the saving is not even 0.06 per cent of for the average rates notice." The new rate applies until 30 June 2029. In most metropolitan councils, prices will increase by up to 10.1 per cent, and coastal councils by up to 1.7 per cent, before inflation. Prices for regional councils will decrease on average by 13.4 per cent before inflation. IPART began a review in August 2024 of the Valuer's prices. During the review, the Valuer proposed increasing charges between around 21 and 38 per cent across four different zones. The agency argued that they needed to meet increasing operating costs, while councils who wrote submissions to the review generally said the increases would be unjustified and hit their bottom line. Warren Shire Council General Manager Gary Woodman said the new rate will mean around $2000 in savings on valuation fees from last year. "That's $2,000 that will eventually, at the bottom line, go to go to increasing services directly to our ratepayers," Mr Woodman said. He said the council last year paid about $20,000 in charges.

Nyngan Race Club secretary Wendy Robb and her committee are run off their feet as thousands converge on Nyngan Showground for the Duck Creek Picnic Races today (Saturday 5 July).Billed as 'the biggest social event in the Western Plains' , organisers have officially sold more than 5,500 tickets.The Duck Creek offers a winning combination of a 'traditional' picnic race meeting with hand-picked entertainment providing a party atmosphere that has the paddocks vibrating.In 2024, 3,750 attended the iconic meeting and Mrs Robb said the club were geared up early as tickets were snapped up early, promising to more than double the town's population.When online tickets went on sale in late May, nearly 3000 were sold in less than 8 hours.'Bona fide party starters', the band Furnace & the Fundamentals, will be expending some energy and electrifying the crowd in the nighttime concert.The band will likely need some 'R&R' before they board the plane in a week's time to tour the U.K.IMAGE: Visit Dubbo and Great Western PlainsNyngan mayor Glen Neill says the Committee have been busy leading up to the event. "The Nyngan community spirit is in full swing with this week being hailed as 'Duck Creek Week'," he said. "Local businesses are on board, decorating their shop fronts, encouraging people to shop locally in the lead up to the event. "Driving down Pangee Street, the blue and yellow balloons decorate the street, in addition to The Big Bogan in the spirit of the event too. "It's a great event for our town, seeing an influx of people to Nyngan for the weekend.’’On social media a local in New York’s Times Square holding a sign to promote the event.The local pharmacy, newsagency, butchery, coffee shops, chemist pubs and club all decorating the streets.Fashions on the Fields and other fun activities make up the day, Police and local security on high alert to ensure its safe for everyone.IMAGE: Duck Creek Picnic Race ClubLocal trainer Rodney Robb has a major hand with seven runners on the day. His 7-year-old gelding All Words has top weight for Saturday’s feature the Nyngan Picnic Cup (1250m) and an experienced bush jockey riding.All Words has won on his home track and at the Duck Creek Picnics last year. He faces stern opposition from Dubbo ‘s Connie Greig who has three starters in the Cup and Scone’s Nikki Pollock.Racing begins at 1.10pm and buses will safely get weary race fans home.

The changes continue for opal miners in Lightning Ridge.   With the Mining Amendment (Mineral Claims – Opals) Act 2023 coming into law on 24 October 2023, older claims from between 2015 and 2023 that were affected by invalid grants, renewals and transfers under previous legislation are now valid. Following amendments to legislation, from 30 May 2025 miners can apply to renew a mineral claim up to two months prior to the day the mineral claim expires.  Changes to how claims are made has been met with a mixed reaction on the ground in Lightning Ridge and nearby opal fields. Previously, renewal claims could only be lodged via fax, mail or in person with NSW Resources. But now renewal claims can be made via email.   However not everyone is happy with the update.   President of the Glengarry Grawin Sheepyard Miners Association Marty Maxwell says the community is not happy with all the changes.   "It is not something the association actually wanted," he said.  "We'd like to see people who are mining come to Lightning Ridge. If they don't live here or they're not working the mines, we'd like to see them come into town and spend some money in town while they're registering their claims.  "Now they can do it in Sydney and Lightning Ridge won't see any money out of them."    The Glengarry Grawin Sheepyard Miners Association would like to see more prospecting, however their calls to the department are falling on deaf ears, according to Maxwell.   "We weren't even notified that it was going to happen.  "It's all very frustrating, what's happening with the department."   Executive Officer and Company Secretary of the Lightning Ridge Miners' Association (LRMA) Kavitha Barron said the group was willing to work with the change, but they want more commitment from the government to reform opal mining as well.   "Initially our stance was that we wanted people to visit Lightning Ridge, because number one it brings money and number two people can check out their claim in person," she said.   "But a lot of our members prefer email.   "Previously, the only available way to file was via fax, post or to physically go to the office, which is quite outdated."  Barron says the LRMA is less concerned with the changes to electronic claims, and more worried about the government implementing the 81 recommendations that came from an independent review prepared by Terry Sheahan into the framework for small scale titles in NSW.  The restructuring of the Opal Mining Act was one of the recommendations from the review.   "The recommendations in the review were made 12 months ago and the government has not given indication if they're going to act on them," said Ms Barron.   "It's important to us to open new ground and get our claims renewed over the counter and not wait seven days."   Earlier this year in April, NSW Minister for Natural Resources Courtney Houssos visited Lightning Ridge with Member for Barown Roy Butler to meet miners and landholders.   Minister Houssos said the feedback from the opal fields will inform a draft response to the independent review's recommendations.   A spokesperson for NSW Resources said the department is developing its response to the recommendations of the Independent Review.   "Recent amendments to the Mining Regulation allow mineral claim renewal applications to be made electronically. The amendments provide applicants a simplified, more reliable, and expedient alternative for making their application.    "The NSW Government is committed to taking steps to protect the interests of both the opal mining industry and landholders and minimise land conflict."   For more information on changes to mineral license claims, or to read the NSW government's independent review into small-scale claims mining, you can visit NSW Resources.  

Gilgandra mayor Doug Batten says a partnership between Gilgandra Shire Council (Council) and the Royal Flying Doctor Service South Eastern Section (RFDSSE) is a game changer for health services not only in his community but across the Western Plains.The $433,000 project will see the renovation and repurposing of the now vacant Gilgandra War Memorial Literacy Institute and former Gilgandra Shire Library building to expand access to healthcare in the region.The RFDS will develop and lease the expanded premises, integrating the existing RFDS-operated medical centre with additional consultation, office and pathology services to enhance medical services and workforce capacity for local and neighbouring regional communities of the Renewable Energy Zone (REZ).Cr Batten says the region at large will benefit from this opportunity.“The expansion of the existing premises of the RFDS Medical Services, Gilgandra to the Health Hub will see an extended range of health and medical services for the region – benefitting immediate and broader communities, as well as the workforce of the future.“Council is proud to partner with the RFDS and the NSW Government. This development aligns with our Community Health Vision, and will better support current needs as well as future demands. "The Health Hub will play a key role in supporting our residents wellbeing and creating a healthier, more vibrant Gilgandra Region for all.”IMAGE: RFDSRFDSSE Executive General Manager Health Services Development, Jenny Beach, says the significance of the project for Gilgandra and the surrounding communities and their access to health and wellbeing services."The RFDS is evolving to meet the needs of modern regional, rural and remote communities. "One way we achieve this is by helping communities retain their essential health services, as we've done in Gilgandra since assuming ownership of the town's only General Practice in 2022,” Ms Beach said.“This Health Hub will provide comprehensive healthcare services to the local and surrounding communities, directly aligning with our mission to improve health outcomes and reduce barriers to quality healthcare for all Australians, regardless of where they live."The next steps in this project will be to finalise the designs for the expansion and go to tender for the works. The project is estimated to be completed mid-2026.The Royal Flying Doctor Service received at $15million boost in the NSW Budget for the continuation of its valuable services.

They're not complaining too hard, but they're not singing from the rooftop either. That's the reaction coming from some western mayors after the NSW Government released its budget for the 2025-26 financial year. Infrastructure projects in the budget include existing funding commitments, like $13.3 for upgrades at Bourke Police Station, while the Lightning Ridge will receive $1 million in extra funding to develop the Australian Opal Centre. "There's been an increase in overall funding in our area, but a lot of that is wage increases and things for the public service in terms of police, nursing and teaching, which is great, and our communities need all of those people," Bourke mayor Lachlan Ford said. "But there's not a lot of infrastructure funding that can assist us with any of our projects that we're trying to get. "We do understand it's pretty tight at the moment too. I'm not bagging them out in any way. It's just this is where it's at."An aerial view of Bourke.  Cr Ford said projects needing funding in his council area include sports oval upgrades and sealing 14 kilometres of the Wanaaring Road northwest of Bourke. NSW Treasurer Daniel Mookhey delivered the budget on Thursday 24 June, which is projecting a return to a billion-dollar surplus in the 2027-28 financial year. NSW Country Mayors Association chair Rick Firman said the projected surplus was "commendable," although he found little support in the budget for rural economies recovering from natural disasters. "Regional, rural and remote councils do great work above and beyond their core obligations and are also major employers in smaller economies, but they are really struggling with their financial sustainability. We would've liked to have seen something in the budget to assist this end," said Cr Firman, who is also the mayor of Temora. Lachlan Shire mayor John Medcalf said that regional NSW didn't get "much of a look in," although he noted funding for feral animal control. His Coonamble counterpart Danny Keady said he wants clarity over whether investments in policing and domestic violence victim support will reach regional communities. The budget includes an additional $227 million over five years for government support services for victim-survivors. “I will be seeking an assurance that the budget provides for retention of the existing police services in Gulargambone, and for additional services to deal with domestic violence and to help its victims," Cr Keady said. Local Government NSW president Phyllis Miller welcomed budget inclusions like $4.2 billion in estimated disaster relief over the next three years. She also welcomed an extra $100 million in biosecurity funding, which includes developing a better detection, protection and response model against pest animals and weeds. However, she said a seven per cent increase in the Emergency Services Levy, paid by councils and insurers, will be "devastating." "While the cost of the increase to councils will be largely recovered through an increase in the rate peg for each council, it is still a cost to our community members that will have to be collected by councils,” Ms Miller said. The rate peg is the maximum amount each council can raise the rates each year.Barwon MP Roy Butler said the government has taken requests for funding in the electorate seriously.  "It’s meant substantial funding for Barwon, in what is a pretty tight financial environment," Mr Butler said. “I will be following up with the government to make sure Barwon receives its fair share of this state-wide program funding. “I do note that there was only $25.413 million allocated towards the Regional Development Trust, compared to $50 million last year, which is one area of concern with this Budget.”

Western Plains locals have donated at least 350 hay bales under an effort to keep Taree farmers kicking after May floods devastated farmland in the region. Gulargambone Lions Club members helped organise to transport 120 bales from local farmers in June, with another 30 expected to hit the road in early July. Another 200 have been donated from Narromine and ten from Coolah. The donations are part of a broader effort by Lions Clubs Australia after the Mid North Coast town copped over 700 millimetres of rain in a month. "They've got nothing. It's been a month since it happened and nothing is growing. It's all dirt and mud. It's still wet," Gulargambone Lions member Colin Ryan said in June. "We also sent a Lions Christmas cake for each drop off with the truck driver."IMAGEThe Gulargambone Lions Club pooled hay bales from local farmers. IMAGE: suppliedTruck drivers from Geurie, about 30 kilometres southeast of Dubbo, collected bales last week from Gulargambone. The NSW government's Rural Assistance Authority will cover costs to transport the feed. Taree experienced its annual rainfall in just days in May, with floodwaters in the Mid North Coast and Hunter regions isolating farms and washing livestock away. Bales damaged by water are also a health risk to animals due to potential mould. Anne Jones has been coordinating the hay donations within Australia Lions Club's N4 District and said they will accept them "for as long as it's needed." "Farmers treasure their hay because who knows what's going to happen with the winter being so cold at the moment and nothing growing," Ms Jones said.

Families of over 60 students at Collarenebri Central School were gifted specially-made portraits of their children as part of a project helping connect with their history as NAIDOC Week marks 50 years. Over three days, a professional photographer from Bathurst took the students, who posed in regalia they made themselves. The students then drew words and sketches on the photos describing their thoughts on their identity. Collarenebri-raised Aunty Roslyn McGregor helped the students find their words with her knowledge of local and family history. "Aboriginal people, we weren't allowed into the school 'till 1941," said Aunty Roslyn, who is also the president of the Collarenebri Aboriginal Education Consultative Group. "Aboriginal parents tried to enrol their children at school in 1941 and 14 kids came that day."Non-Aboriginal parents kept their kids away."Thirty-six white children went to school when their Aboriginal peers first enrolled, while over 60 were kept home by their parents in protest. "It was on the strength of those 14 that we get to be here today. That's the legacy they left," Aunty Roslyn said. "They (the 2025 students) wrote about being kind, being good at understanding others."They get their strength from their family and friends and being respectful."There's a vision they have for themselves." The portraits were framed and presented at a school assembly on 2 July, where at least 200 people attended. Aunty McGregor said the project aided school attendance, while students also took part in sessions last week involving Indigenous language and baking Jonny cakes. The project received a grant $1000 grant from non-profit Outback Arts and is based around the NAIDOC theme 'The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy.' "It's about dhaiiyaan (family), as they say in the Kamilaroi," principal Natalie Cavaleri said. "This is something where families didn't have these pictures in their home. Now, they've got these pictures, these beautiful pictures that symbolise the strength of their child, the vision and the future generation that they all are." NAIDOC was established in 1975 to celebrate Indigenous cultures. The official week will run between 6-13 July, although the school held their NAIDOC assembly before the end of Term 2 this week.

With NSW Nurses rates of pay currently sitting behind other states, the recent budget did little to address the matter, leaving rural and regional frontline workers feeling frustrated.The NSW Nurses and Midwives’ Association (NSWNMA) has rebuked the NSW government for its lack of thought around wages while welcoming its other funding to improve performance and wellbeing for NSW Nurses.Treasurer Daniel Mookhey announced $34 billion in health funding and $3.3 billion in capital investment in the 2025-26 budget, but according to NSWNMA nothing for a wage rise or funding to expand the rollout of Safe Staffing ratios.NSWNMA General Secretary, Shaye Candish, said the Treasurer’s third budget was a missed opportunity to tackle the pay disparity with other states and territories.“The Queensland and Victorian governments are investing in nurses and midwives’ wages to help grow their frontline health workforce, yet we are not seeing this long-term planning in NSW,” said Ms Candish.“We welcome the additional money that’s been allocated for infrastructure upgrades and hospital redevelopments, but unless the NSW government is prepared to direct serious funding towards public sector nurses and midwives’ wages, we will remain behind.“The Special Commission of Inquiry acknowledged nurses and midwives are struggling, and that the state’s public health system is stretched and underfunded, but rather than act with urgency the government has chosen to leave it for the industrial umpire to decide an outcome.“Until the government invests in our workforce, more nurses and midwives will continue to flee NSW for better pay and conditions to the north and south,” Ms Candish.NSWNMA General Secretary, Shaye Candish [IMAGE - NSWNMA]According to a Western area nurse there is still a long way to go for rural nurses.“We need our union and government to let us have input and be heard to develop better policies and remuneration around work-life balance for nurses, midwives, and carers.“To be heard on rostering, shift work and flexible work practices considering rurally we don’t have adequate childcare and the distances some of us travel to work.“In the bush we are heavily relying on overseas nurses who aren’t staying because of the pay disparity between the states and because there is inadequate support in the community like childcare or cheap housing”, she said..NSWNMA Assistant General Secretary, Michael Whaites, said while the $83 million allocated to maternity care, including 53 additional midwives for regional areas, will help improve access to continuity of care models, he says better pay and conditions would attract and retain staff.“Creating additional midwifery positions is important, but we know sites struggle to recruit to existing positions. Unless we close the pay gaps for our nurses and midwives, they’ll struggle to fill the positions,” added Mr Whaites.“Despite acknowledging the pressures families are under, the Treasurer has focused on private sector investment and capital works over improving the lives of nurses and midwives.“It’s important to address housing supply and affordability and to ensure there’s new developments for population and productivity growth, but the government also needs to significantly lift its investment in its biggest public sector workforce.“Money that’s been allocated to better support injured workers is welcome, but we remain opposed the government’s cruel proposal to stop workers compensation claims for psychological injuries.”The NSWNMA says it will continue to advocate for better pay and conditions across the state’s public health system.